Essential DIY Home Repairs For Every Homeowner
Your home is a canvas waiting for your personal touch, and with these empowering do-it-yourself projects, you can transform spaces, solve common issues, and revitalize your surroundings.
Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just getting started, these projects cover a range of areas, from enhancing aesthetics to tackling practical repairs. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and discover the satisfaction of turning your living space into a place that's not only functional but uniquely yours.
Use Coarse Salt And A Lemon To Clean Cutting Boards
Cleaning a cutting board with coarse salt and half a lemon is wise for its dual-action benefits. The coarse salt acts as a natural abrasive, effectively scrubbing away debris, stains, and food residues without causing damage to the board.
The acidity of the lemon provides a disinfecting and deodorizing effect, harnessing its natural antibacterial properties to kill germs and neutralize odors. This eco-friendly method ensures a hygienic food preparation surface, free from harmful chemicals, leaving behind a fresh and pleasant citrus aroma.
Use Toothpaste To Remove Scratches
Due to its mild abrasive properties, toothpaste can serve as an effective scratch remover, particularly on surfaces like car paint or phone screens. Choose a plain, white toothpaste without gel or special additives.
Apply a small amount of toothpaste directly onto the scratched surface and use a soft cloth to rub it into the scratch using circular motions. The abrasive particles in the toothpaste help to gently buff away the scratch. Afterward, wipe away any excess toothpaste with a clean, damp cloth.
Empty Cans Are Great For Gardening
Stacking empty soda cans at the bottom of a planter before adding soil is a clever gardening hack with multiple benefits. The cans create a lightweight and space-efficient filler that occupies volume in the planter without adding unnecessary weight.
This reduces the amount of soil needed and enhances drainage, preventing waterlogged conditions that can be harmful to plant roots. The empty cans promote aeration, facilitating better airflow to the roots and preventing soil compaction.
Olive Oil Gets The Squeak Out Of Door Hinges
To eliminate squeaks from door hinges, a practical hack involves using olive oil. Begin by applying a small amount of olive oil to a cloth or cotton swab. Gently rub the olive oil onto the hinge pins and along the hinge knuckles, ensuring even coverage.
The lubricating properties of the oil reduce friction between metal components, eliminating the source of the squeak. Open and close the door several times to allow the olive oil to work into the hinge mechanism.
Use A Crayon To Fill Nail Holes In The Wall
To use a crayon to fill in nail holes in a wall, begin by selecting a crayon color that closely matches the wall paint. Make sure the crayon is at room temperature for better application. Simply rub the crayon back and forth over the nail hole, ensuring the wax fills the indentation.
Apply a bit of pressure to make sure the crayon effectively covers the hole. Once filled, use a putty knife or your finger to smooth and level the crayon wax with the wall surface. This hack is much easier than buying paint and plaster!
A Pool Noodle Barrier For The Washing Machine
Placing a pool noodle in the gap between the washing machine and the wall is a practical solution to prevent potential issues. The pool noodle acts as a cushioning barrier, safeguarding the washing machine from unintended bumps that may occur during the washing and spinning cycles.
This protective measure helps minimize vibrations and reduces the risk of scratches or damage to both the machine and surrounding surfaces. Also, by filling the gap, the pool noodle prevents small items like socks or lint from slipping into the often hard-to-reach space.
Baking Soda Can Be Used To Clean Upholstery
Sprinkling baking soda over the cushions of a couch is a practical and effective method for freshening and cleaning upholstery. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing and neutralizing odors that may have accumulated on the cushions over time.
Its porous nature enables it to lift and trap unwanted smells, including those from pets, spills, or general daily use. Baking soda is also known for its gentle abrasive properties, effectively removing surface stains and dirt from the upholstery fabric.
Lemons Help Get Rid Of Hard Water Buildup
Using a lemon to eliminate hard water buildup in faucets is a natural and effective hack. Cut a fresh lemon in half and rub the exposed flesh against the affected areas of the faucet, focusing on the limescale deposits.
The citric acid in the lemon works as a mild acid, breaking down the mineral deposits from hard water. Allow the lemon juice to sit on the faucet for a few minutes, giving it time to dissolve the buildup. Then, use an old toothbrush or a soft brush to scrub the area, helping to loosen and remove the remaining deposits.
Pennies Will Keep A Wobbly Toilet Secure
A clever hack for stabilizing a wobbly toilet involves using pennies. Start by removing the bolt caps on each side of the toilet base. Place a stack of pennies on the floor around each bolt, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Then, carefully tighten the bolts over the pennies. The added height and stability provided by the pennies help eliminate any rocking or wobbling of the toilet. For extra reinforcement, secure the base of the toilet using a silicon gun.
Clean Rusted Screws In Vinegar
Cleaning screws in vinegar is a smart idea due to vinegar's natural acidic properties. Over time, screws can accumulate rust and corrosion, making them challenging to use or prone to breaking. By soaking screws in vinegar, the acid helps dissolve and loosen the rust, making it easier to clean them thoroughly.
This process not only restores the appearance of the screws but also enhances their functionality by eliminating the corrosive buildup. Vinegar is a non-toxic and eco-friendly option, making it a safer alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
Use A Pencil To Lubricate Door Locks
Using graphite as a lubricant for door locks is a wise choice for several reasons. Graphite, like in a pencil, is a dry and powdered form of carbon that serves as an excellent lubricant because it doesn't attract dirt and debris like liquid lubricants, such as oil.
Graphite particles penetrate the internal components when applied to a door lock, providing smooth and friction-free movement. It is particularly effective in extreme temperatures, as it doesn't solidify in cold weather or become overly liquid in heat, ensuring consistent performance year-round.
Clear Nail Polish Can Fix A Screen Tear
Applying clear nail polish to fix a tear in a screen door is a practical and quick solution. The clear nail polish creates a protective barrier that helps prevent the tear from expanding further. Simply clean the torn area and let it dry.
Then, carefully apply a layer of clear nail polish over the tear, ensuring that it covers the damaged section. The polish forms a transparent and flexible seal, effectively mending the tear and reinforcing the screen. This is a much cheaper option than replacing the entire screen.
A Budget-Friendly DIY Washing Machine Cleaner
A practical and eco-friendly way to make a DIY washing machine cleaner involves using simple household ingredients. Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar to form a paste. Apply this mixture to the inside of the washing machine drum, focusing on areas with visible stains, residues, or mold.
Allow the paste to sit for 15-20 minutes, then use an old toothbrush or scrub brush to thoroughly scrub the interior surfaces. Afterward, run a hot water cycle without any clothes in the machine to rinse away the cleaning mixture.
Command Hooks Keep Garbage Bags In Place
A clever hack to keep a garbage bag in place involves using a command hook. Attach a command hook to the side of a trash bin, ensuring it's positioned at a height where the top of the garbage bag can loop over it.
Place the hook strategically so that when you open or close the garbage bin, it catches the top edge of the garbage bag, preventing it from slipping down into the bin and allowing for easy removal when it is time to take the trash out.
Use A Walnut To Buff Out Scratched Wood
To effectively use a walnut to eliminate wood scratches, start by selecting a fresh, uncracked walnut. Ensure that the walnut is at room temperature, as this allows it to release its natural oils more effectively. Identify the scratches on the wooden surface that you want to address. Take the walnut and rub it gently over the scratches, applying a bit of pressure.
The natural oils present in the walnut will seep into the scratched wood, helping to mask and diminish the appearance of the damage. Continue rubbing the walnut in circular motions until you notice an improvement in the scratches.
Use Soda Tabs As Makeshift Picture Hooks
A clever hack for hanging pictures involves using soda tabs as makeshift picture hooks. Simply affix the soda tab to the back of the picture frame, securing it with a screw or nail through the existing hole in the tab.
The loop created by the tab serves as an instant and budget-friendly alternative to traditional picture hooks, allowing for easy hanging on nails or screws already in place on the wall. So, don't throw those tabs away!
Liquid Electrical Tape Deals With Exposed Wires
A smart hack for dealing with exposed wires involves using liquid electrical tape. This versatile substance, usually in a squeezable bottle, can be applied directly onto the exposed wires, forming a protective, insulating layer when it dries.
The liquid electrical tape effectively seals and insulates the wires, safeguarding them against moisture, corrosion, and potential short circuits. This hack is particularly useful when traditional electrical tape is challenging to apply or may not provide a durable and long-lasting solution.
Glue Grips On Carpets Prevent Slipping And Sliding
Creating glue grips on carpets is a practical and cost-effective solution to prevent slipping and sliding. To make glue grips, apply a thin, even layer of hot glue to the back of a rug or carpet in a grid-like pattern.
Allow the glue to dry completely before placing the rug back on the floor. The hot glue creates a textured surface that enhances traction and grip on the underlying flooring, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by shifting carpets.
Magnets Keep Cabinet Doors Closed
Heavy-duty magnets provide a strong and reliable force, ensuring that cabinet doors remain securely shut preventing accidental openings. This is particularly useful in kitchens where cabinet doors may be filled with heavy items, reducing the risk of spills or breakage.
The magnets are discreet and can be easily installed inside the cabinet, maintaining a clean and seamless aesthetic. Unlike traditional latches or locks, magnets do not require intricate mechanisms, making them easy to install and use.
Use Baby Powder To Get Rid Of Squeaky Floor Boards
Sprinkling a layer of baby powder over squeaky stairs is a clever solution to alleviate the irritating noise. Baby powder acts as a dry lubricant, reducing friction between the moving parts of the stairs that cause the squeaking.
The powder seeps into the gaps when applied, creating a smoother surface and minimizing the rubbing that produces the sound. This quick and easy remedy is particularly effective on wooden stairs where friction between the treads and risers often leads to squeaks.
A Vegetable Peeler As A Makeshift Screwdriver
A vegetable peeler can serve as an unexpected but effective tool for driving screws into the wall if a traditional screwdriver doesn't fit the screw. By placing the screw in the groove of the peeler and applying slight pressure, you create a makeshift handle that offers better grip and control during the screwing process.
This technique is particularly handy when dealing with small or hard-to-reach spaces where traditional screwdrivers may be challenging to maneuver. The vegetable peeler's ergonomic design allows for a comfortable and efficient way to turn the screw, making it a versatile and readily available alternative tool.
Use A Tennis Ball To Buff Floors
Attaching a tennis ball to the end of a mop or broom handle can serve as a DIY floor buffing hack. The soft and textured surface of the tennis ball effectively scuffs away scuff marks and dirt on hardwood or tile floors without causing damage.
Simply secure the tennis ball onto the handle and use it to roll over the floor surface, applying gentle pressure as needed. This method not only provides a quick and easy way to buff floors but also proves useful for reaching into corners and along baseboards that may be challenging to access with traditional floor-cleaning tools.
Felt Stickers Are A Great Idea For Furniture
Applying felt stickers to furniture offers several benefits, primarily centered around protection and convenience. These adhesive pads, often made of soft felt material, act as a cushion between the furniture and the floor, preventing scratches, scuffs, and damage caused by movement or friction.
Felt stickers are handy for chairs, tables, and other pieces that are frequently moved or in contact with hard flooring surfaces. As an added benefit, these stickers make furniture easier to slide across floors, reducing noise and minimizing the effort required for rearranging or repositioning.
A DIY Hack For Water Stains
A practical DIY hack to clean water stains involves using a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda. Begin by mixing equal parts of vinegar and baking soda to form a paste. Apply this paste to the water-stained area and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
The combination of vinegar's acidity and baking soda's mild abrasive properties works to break down and lift water stains. After allowing the paste to work, scrub the stained area with a soft brush or cloth, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
Use Wood Putty To Fix A Skirting Board
Using wood putty to fix skirting boards offers a quick and effective solution for repairing minor damages or imperfections. Wood putty, which typically comes in a paste or compound form, can be easily applied to fill cracks, gouges, or gaps in skirting boards. It adheres well to wood surfaces, providing a seamless finish when dried.
After application, sanding the putty smooth ensures a professional look, making the repaired skirting boards visually consistent with the rest of the trim. It is an easier solution than re-painting the entire skirting board.
Baking Soda And Super Glue To Help Fill Holes
To fix holes in the wall, a practical DIY solution involves combining baking soda and regular super glue. Begin by applying a small amount of baking soda directly into the hole.
Then, drop a few drops of super glue onto the baking soda, creating a quick-drying and durable filler. The mixture forms a hard compound that fills and seals the hole efficiently. Once the combination has dried and hardened, sand the area lightly to achieve a smooth finish.
Wax Is An Easy Solution To Unstick Pesky Drawers
Using wax to unstick drawers is a practical and effective solution. The natural lubricating properties of wax, such as beeswax or paraffin, can help reduce friction between the drawer and its tracks, making it easier to open and close smoothly.
Simply rub a thin layer of wax along the edges and slides where the drawer meets the frame, ensuring even coverage. This method not only provides a quick fix for stubborn drawers but also offers a long-lasting solution that prevents future sticking.
Spilled Oil Is No Match For Cat Litter
Cat litter is an effective absorbent for mopping up oil spills due to its composition, usually made of clay or silica gel. When scattered over an oil spill, cat litter quickly absorbs and encapsulates the oil, forming clumps that are easy to sweep or scoop away.
The porous structure of cat litter enhances its absorbent properties, efficiently lifting and containing the oil from various surfaces. This hack is particularly useful for garage floors, driveways, or other areas where oil spills are common.
Kool-Aid Dissolves Hard Water Deposits
Using Kool-Aid to eliminate hard water stains in a toilet might seem surprising, but the citric acid in the drink mix can be effective. The acidity in Kool-Aid, particularly in flavors like lemon or lime, helps break down mineral deposits left by hard water.
Empty a packet into the toilet bowl, ensuring it reaches the stained areas. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more stubborn stains. The citric acid helps dissolve and loosen the hard water deposits, making it easier to scrub away with a toilet brush.
Rubber Bands To Loosen Old And Stripped Screws
Using a rubber band to loosen a screw is a handy trick that provides added grip and traction. When dealing with a stubborn or stripped screw, place a rubber band over the screwhead before inserting the screwdriver.
The rubber band fills the gaps and increases friction between the screwdriver and the screw, providing a better grip and reducing the likelihood of the screwdriver slipping. This added traction is particularly beneficial when working with older screws or those with worn-out heads.
Turn A Valve To Fix Low Water Pressure
To address lower water pressure in a toilet, check and adjust the water fill valve. Begin by locating the water fill valve, usually located on the left side of the toilet tank. Turn the adjustment screw on the top of the fill valve counterclockwise to increase the water level.
If the water pressure remains low, try cleaning any debris or sediment that may be blocking the valve by turning off the water supply, flushing the toilet to drain the tank, and then removing and cleaning the valve components.
Use A Chisel And Hammer To Open Sealed Windows
Using a chisel and hammer to reopen sealed windows is a good approach when dealing with windows that have been painted or sealed shut. Carefully insert the chisel between the window sash and the frame, tapping it gently with a hammer to create a gap.
Work around the window, gradually widening the gap with the chisel. Be cautious not to damage the window or frame during this process. Once you've created enough space, apply some lubricant like silicone spray or a mixture of dish soap and water to further ease the window's movement.
WD-40 Can Remove Crayon From Walls
WD-40 can effectively remove crayon marks from walls due to its lubricating properties and ability to break down various substances. To use WD-40 for crayon removal, spray a small amount of WD-40 directly onto the crayon marks on the wall.
Allow it to sit for a minute to penetrate the wax. Then, use a soft cloth or sponge to gently rub the crayon marks, applying a bit of pressure. The lubricating components in WD-40 help break down the crayon's waxy composition, making it easier to wipe away.
Water And An Iron Help Un-Dent The Floor
Using a little water and an iron to fix dents in the floor is a clever and effective method. Begin by dampening a cloth or sponge with water and placing it directly over the dent in the flooring.
Then, set the iron to low or medium heat and carefully press it over the damp cloth. The combination of heat and moisture causes the wood or laminate floor to expand, helping to raise and level out the dent. Repeat the process as needed, periodically checking the progress.
Combat Garbage Oder By Soaking Bread In Vinegar
Soaking a slice of bread in vinegar can be a beneficial method for deodorizing a garbage can. The bread serves as a porous material that readily absorbs the vinegar's odor-neutralizing properties. When soaked, the bread becomes infused with the vinegar, effectively capturing and neutralizing foul smells emanating from the garbage.
Placing this vinegar-soaked bread in the bottom of the garbage can helps combat odors, creating a fresher and more pleasant environment. The vinegar eliminates bacteria and neutralizes unpleasant smells, while the bread serves as a medium for dispersing the deodorizing effects throughout the garbage can.
Clean Grout Easily With A DIY Paste
Mixing baking soda and water to create a paste is a highly effective and non-toxic solution for cleaning grout. Baking soda, known for its mild abrasive properties and ability to break down stains, combines with water to form a paste that adheres well to grout lines.
Apply the paste to the grout and let it sit for a while, allowing the baking soda to penetrate and lift dirt, mold, and discoloration. The paste also acts as a gentle scrubbing agent when worked into the grout with a brush or an old toothbrush.
Bubble Wrap Is Effective Insulation During The Winter
Bubble wrap can be a surprisingly effective and inexpensive insulating material for a house. When placed against windows, bubble wrap creates a layer of trapped air, which acts as an insulator by reducing heat transfer. The bubbles in the wrap provide additional insulation by preventing drafts and serving as a barrier to cold air.
This DIY hack is handy during colder months, helping to retain indoor heat and improve energy efficiency. The transparent nature of bubble wrap allows natural light to filter through, maintaining visibility while still offering insulation.
WD-40 To Ensure Snow And Ice Don't Stick To Car Windows
Spraying WD-40 on windshields to prevent snow and ice from sticking is a helpful idea for winter maintenance. WD-40 is known for its water-displacing and lubricating properties, which can create a protective barrier on the windshield.
When applied before a snowstorm, it can make it easier to remove accumulated snow and ice by preventing them from adhering firmly to the glass surface. The hydrophobic nature of WD-40 repels moisture, reducing the chances of frost formation and making it simpler to clear the windshield during freezing conditions.
Use Vaseline To Get Rid Of Squeaky Hinges
Using Vaseline to remove squeaky hinges is a practical and simple DIY solution. Apply a small amount of Vaseline directly onto the hinge pins and the areas where metal components rub against each other.
The Vaseline serves as a lubricant, reducing friction and eliminating the source of the squeak. Its thick and sticky consistency allows it to adhere well to the metal surfaces, providing a long-lasting solution for quieting squeaky hinges.
Clean And Lubricate Hard-To-Open Sliding Doors
A practical way to address a hard-to-open sliding door is by first examining the tracks and cleaning them thoroughly. Over time, dirt, debris, or grime can accumulate in the tracks, impeding smooth movement.
Use a vacuum or a brush to remove any loose particles, and then wipe the tracks with a damp cloth. Once cleaned, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks, ensuring even coverage. The lubricant helps to reduce friction and allows the door to glide more smoothly along the track.